Fernando Torres believes that if Liverpool can remain on top of the Premier League over Christmas then the title can be theirs.

The Spanish striker has just returned from a sixweek injury lay-off, and is ready to spearhead his side's bid for a first championship in 19 years.

The Anfield club only trail leaders Chelsea on goal difference and Torres said: "If we are still up there by the end of December, then we have serious options of staying there. That has been the idea for us so far.

"The big name sides rarely slip up, especially during the first half of the season.

If you fall too far behind you leave yourself very few, if any, options.

"You have to be on the pace to have a chance, and we haven't done that in recent years. We know that we have to be there at the turn of the year. It is vital to stay in touch.

"The Premier League is the title which everyone here wants, even more than the Champions League.

"The players who have been at the club for longer have won every title possible apart from the Premier League and we all - the fans especially - want to win it."